What are their advantages? When should you choose them over low or mid-cut shoes? Let's explore the key things to know about high-cut boots.
Also known as high-top boots, high-cut hiking shoes are perhaps the most common hiking footwear on the market. That said, while they offer better ankle support, greater foot protection and are often more resistant than their low-cut or mid-cut counterparts, they are also heavier and warmer. It can therefore sometimes be preferable to opt for lighter, more flexible shoes — for example, for dynamic outings or in warm, dry conditions.
Brief definition
High-cut boots are hiking or mountaineering shoes that wrap completely around the ankle above the malleolus. If you struggle to tell them apart from mid-cut shoes, remember that they have at least two hooks above the ankle, compared to just one for mid-cuts. They therefore provide better ankle support by holding it firmly in place, allowing the wearer to tackle any type of terrain and cross any kind of obstacle safely. High-cut boots also offer better protection for your feet against bad weather and natural hazards, such as rocks on the trail or unexpected rockfalls. They are ideal for long or technical hikes in mountainous areas, as long as your pace does not need to be too fast, as they are also the heaviest and warmest footwear option.
When to choose high-cut boots
Every type of terrain and every type of hiker has a corresponding type of footwear: low-cut, mid-cut or high-cut. Let's look at when to opt for high-cut boots.
- For treks and long-distance hikes: over a long distance, you always carry more. Backpack, water, food, even bivouac gear — the weight quickly multiplies compared to a shorter outing. The joints, and ankles in particular, take on more strain. It is therefore important that they are well cushioned and supported, which is exactly what high-cut boots provide. For even better weight distribution, consider also equipping yourself with hiking poles.
- For technical terrain with significant elevation gain: just like heavier loads, substantial elevation gain puts considerable strain on the ankles. If you plan to hike in mountainous areas, with sometimes steep slopes and off-camber terrain, it is once again important that your ankles are well supported.
- For steep and rugged terrain: on rocky, obstacle-strewn or unstable ground, a twisted ankle can happen fast. If you don't want to end your outing with a sprained ankle, preventing this kind of injury is essential — high-cut boots are the best way to do it.
- In bad weather: there may be nothing worse than finding yourself with wet feet in the middle of a hike. For the same material, a high-cut boot will be more waterproof than a lower shoe, keeping your foot drier.
- For mountaineering or high-altitude hikes: high-cut boots are the most suitable for altitude — they offer greater protection against cold and bad weather. They are generally equipped with toe caps and side reinforcements for even more comprehensive protection. Note that there are shoes specifically designed for mountaineering as well as winter models, which are warmer and higher-cut.
- If you suffer from recurring sprains: if your ankles are already weakened and you risk twisting them at the slightest misstep, opt for high-cut boots, whatever terrain you're on.
- If you want durable footwear: generally, high-cut boots are made from more resistant materials than low-cut hiking shoes or mid-cut ones, they withstand abrasion better and are more often equipped with toe caps and reinforcements. They therefore tend to wear out less quickly and last longer.
